1,320 Arrested in Island-wide Excise Raids During New Year Season

The Excise Department says 1,320 individuals have been arrested in connection with island-wide raids carried out during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year festive period.

Editorial Staff

Apr 14, 2025 - 10:45

1,320 Arrested in Island-wide Excise Raids During New Year Season

Colombo, April 14 – The Excise Department says 1,320 individuals have been arrested in connection with island-wide raids carried out during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year festive period.

The arrests were made during a series of special operations conducted between April 3 and April 12, targeting illegal alcohol sales and excise violations.

Officials also confirmed that three licensed liquor outlets were shut down for violating excise regulations by selling alcohol unlawfully during the restricted festive period.

The department stated that operations will continue in the coming days to ensure compliance with alcohol and licensing laws across the country.